Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

The separation of building controls is worthy of consideration for new dwellings on farms. Many of the accidents occur on existing farms and many farmers are earning low levels of remuneration for their activities and we do not want to involve them in increased expenses. If people are cautious and aware of the dangers, it will go a long way towards minimising the risk. I agree with Deputy Howlin — many of the accidents on farms involve relatives or visitors and the onus is on the owner of the property or the driver of the tractor to do everything possible to keep young children away from farming activities and machinery.

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